Baldur's Gate 3 has quickly become one of the most popular CRPGs in recent years, with players still exploring the game's extensive content. Like its predecessors, Baldur's Gate 3 offers countless choices that can significantly impact gameplay. One aspect that stands out is the diverse group of party members players encounter. These companions have become iconic among fans and contribute to the game's popularity.
Each character in Baldur's Gate 3's party is exceptionally well-written and acted, offering unique perspectives and valuable skills. Among these recruits is Minsc, a dim-witted but charming Ranger who is typically encountered towards the end of most playthroughs, if at all. Minsc's return as a party member in Baldur's Gate 3 reflects the same qualities that made him beloved in the original BioWare titles. Despite his considerable contributions, acquiring Minsc is only possible close to the game's ending.
The Long Road to Recruiting Minsc in BG3
The path to meeting Minsc, a companion in BG3, is a complex and specific route that requires certain actions. To begin, players will encounter Jaheira in the Last Light Inn area during Act 2. Jaheira, a returning character and potential companion, is the High Harper leading the resistance against Ketheric Thorm. She will only join the party after surviving the assault on Moonrise Towers in Act 3.
Once Jaheira reaches Act 3's Rivington after surviving the battle at Moonrise, the quest to acquire Minsc can begin. However, players are advised to explore Act 3 before focusing on Jaheira's quest. This quest is located in the Wyrm's Crossing area, found at the end of Rivington. After surviving an ambush at her meeting and hearing a rumor at Sharress' Caress, players must venture into the secret Guildhall of the Lower City. Only then will the party have the necessary context to proceed to the Counting House, a building located across the city from the starting point, where they will finally find Minsc.
Minsc Deserved Better in Baldur's Gate 3
Recruiting Minsc is a challenge due to multiple potential failures, such as not inflicting a non-lethal blow. Despite a captivating performance by voice actor Matthew Mercer, most players only get to spend a few hours with Minsc as he is discovered late in the final zone of the game. If players explore all content before him, there may be little left to do except for the final battle. However, there is hope for future expansions that could provide more time with Minsc. In the meantime, players who want to use Minsc and Boo throughout Act 3 should prioritize completing Jaheira's questline. The time spent together is enjoyable but unfortunately too brief.
Baldur's Gate 3 is available now for PC and PS5. Xbox Series X/S versions are in development.